The 2026 Ballon d'Or race opens after Spain's World Cup victory

No clear favorite emerges for the 2026 Ballon d'Or after the World Cup.

Published 16h16 sources✓ Confirmedupdated 7h

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The fact

Mbappé, Messi, Yamal, and Rodri are among the contenders.

The race is wide open between World Cup winners and Champions League victors.

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Why it matters

Le Ballon d'Or est l'un des trophées individuels les plus prestigieux du football, et son attribution après une Coupe du monde est toujours un événement médiatique majeur.

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Kylian Mbappé Lionel Messi Lamine Yamal Rodri FIFA #ballon d'or #football #espagne #coupe du monde #ligue des champions #mbappe #messi

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Jul 20Iñaki Williams pays tribute to his brother Nico after Spain's victory

Jul 21The 2026 Ballon d'Or race opens after Spain's World Cup victorythis article

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Auto-synthesis from 16 media sources · identified on July 21, 2026

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